Shares Essentials

Refreshed October 2024 | CPD time: 30 Minutes

Shares, also known as equities, are a type of asset class that represents ownership in a company. Each share will entitle the shareholder to have a say in business matters and how the company is governed. This is put to a vote at the company's annual general meeting. Moreover, shareholders are entitled to financial benefits that come with share ownership. While owning shares carries benefits, there are also inherent risks. Here, we explore the features, risks and benefits of owning shares, the types available, and how they are traded globally.